Path. [L., a. Gr. ἀρθρῖτις, f. ἄρθρον joint: see -ITIS.] General term for inflammation of the joints; spec. gout.
1544. Phaër, Regim. Lyfe (1546), L iij. Paine of the jointes … is generally called arthritis.
1753. Chambers, Supp., s.v. Gout, A light arthritis is very often called a fit of the rheumatism.
1847–9. Todd, Cycl. Anat. & Phys., IV. 577/2. Chronic arthritis of the shoulder.
